Display/Storage for inherited 1911

[TOASTERLOCKER]

I'm wondering if any of you can provide any suggestions for displaying my grandfather's duty pistol from when he was in the Air Force. It will be passed on to me next time I see my grandma, and I want to put it someplace where I can see it as a daily reminder of him, but have it still be relatively secure.

I'm thinking some kind of glass and wood display case that I could hang on the wall in my office area at home. Can any of you suggest any websites or people that sell such cases? Is this even a good idea? I trust the people I invite over, and I wouldn't be letting them into the office anyway, but I'm a little paranoid. At the same time, I don't want the gun just sitting in a safe all the time either where I won't be able to see and appreciate it.

Also, do you have any suggestions for how I should disable the gun so that if in the horrible scenario it was taken, the theif wouldn't be able to use it? Obviously I would display it without magazines or ammo anywhere nearby. But how about displaying it without the barrel or certain springs? Is this too much paranoia? Or are these good ideas?

[lentislee]

I have several 1911A1's and would certainly like to display them also. In fact I have a close relationship with a wooden box company who I am going to ask to produce a wall mounted display cabinet for six pistols. It would have a plexiglass door with hinges and the pistols would be hung on pegs that will accomodate the design. There will be a lock set manufactured into the door. It will look very nice....haven't decided the type of wood yet.

Now the downside to a display! THERE VIRTUALLY IS NO SECURITY! This would be a bonanza for a thief! To my way of thinking one has two choices, either display them very visibly (not in a drawer or UNDER THE MATTRESS) or the most secure and recommended by most-a safe.

As to your question regarding disabling the pistol, I would remove the firing pin. It can be done simply and would not distort the appearance.

I have often thought of designing and furnishing display cabinets for the 1911's, however for security reasons decided the market would be very limited!

COMMENTS!

Lentis Lee

[ambidextrous1]

For display, the firing pin and a lot of the internals can be removed.

Security - whether the firearm is lying on a coffee table or in your 1000 pound safe - is never absolute. An alert and irritable dog may be the best safeguard.

I'd recommend the use of lexan instead of plexiglass for the display case. A 1/4 inch thick sheet of lexan will withstand a heavy blow from a hammer, and it doesn't matter whether you use the claw end or the nail-driving end of the hammer.

[sonofsarge]

Another idea is a quality photo of the gun next to one of your Grampa, in a custom frame. You could always take the gun out of it's hiding place and show it to interested and trusted friends.

[nra-life-member]

Another idea is a quality photo of the gun next to one of your Grampa, in a custom frame. You could always take the gun out of it's hiding place and show it to interested and trusted friends.


+1 for this idea.. I think it offers the best and most secure environment for you, the family and the pistol..

[ambidextrous1]

Yes, this certainly provides the best security; and the pistol can be kept fully functional.

I'm sure you will enjoy passing it around for guests to handle. Be sure that the pistol is cleaned & lubed regularly; don't use WD-40!

You should also consider having the gun appraised and insured - even though it's usually locked in a safe.

[Hawkmoon]

I think open display is a VERY bad idea. First, it probably violates your state's laws regarding "secure" storage of firearms. Second, as already pointed out, it puts the pistol in plain sight as an easy target for any burglars who might find their way into your house. Do NOT assume that it can't or won't happen to you. It has happened to me (they got cameras and computers but, thankfully, no firearms) and it shouldn't have happened. It can happen to anyone. Your alarm system, if you have one, does not prevent break-ins. All it does is notify the police where to look for the broken window. The thieves will be long gone before the police arrive.

[Norton]

I strongly agree that not displaying will keep it the safest. A thief will know the tricks for defeating things like lexan. A safe of some sort bolted to the floor or a gun safe loaded with lead shot or similar to make it impractical for 2 men to lift. Alarms are great as long as they produce enough noise both inside and out.
One of the things most overlooked is a hold up light. When the alarm trips, a light will turn on. If you have a good neighbor put the light so they can see it. But remember,
a high percentage of burglars live near their victims.
Nothing like a big dogs, mean spouse and a little secretcey. I ain't tellin what I have.
Better not upset her.
Norton

[TOASTERLOCKER]

Hey all,

I just wanted to thank everyone for the tips. I'm thinking I probably won't display it, just I can't find an option I feel truly comfortable with (for all the reasons you guys mentioned.)

I guess displaying it was a nice thought, but not really practical.

However, if I ever get a rottweiler like I want, I may reconsider the display idea :D

[ambidextrous1]

That's a good decision, Toaster - at least for now. You just don't want to advertise that posession to everyone who enters your house.

[TattooPaul]

You could always ship them all to me and I'll display them for you! ;)

Don't rely on a dog! Treats distract many except hard-core guard dogs and those can be addressed with a .22 short (also known as "hush puppies"). Sad but true...

[72 Broncoman]

Toaster; I myself at one time agonized about displaying also and I stumbled upon a great idea.I live in an area with several museums and war parks with displays on location and the personel love for people to display items ie. guns,knives,other military items and found this to be great,you will loan the item for a certan period of time and people from all over will get to admire it also. secured behind glass,alarms,security,what can be better?Also loaners name is displayed with item.I posted in Nov. about my 1911 4th.generation war pistol that my grandfather,father,myself,son have carried in combat and when it returns that where she will be.Think about it! You and grandpaw will be honored. I rotate to different locations and sometime take them home.

[Norton]

Broncoman,
That's a great idea. I commend you for willingness to share such personal memorabilia
and provide a positive image for gun ownership.
My hats off to you.
Thank you and your's for serving.
Norton